US5088438A - Apparatus for flexible marine windows - Google Patents
Apparatus for flexible marine windows Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US5088438A US5088438A US07/500,523 US50052390A US5088438A US 5088438 A US5088438 A US 5088438A US 50052390 A US50052390 A US 50052390A US 5088438 A US5088438 A US 5088438A
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- framework members
- framework
- fastening member
- flexible plastic
- insulator
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
- 239000012212 insulator Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 38
- 229920002457 flexible plastic Polymers 0.000 claims abstract description 30
- 238000009999 singeing Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 18
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 18
- 239000010985 leather Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 24
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 8
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 8
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000009972 noncorrosive effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000002035 prolonged effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000005299 abrasion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 208000018747 cerebellar ataxia with neuropathy and bilateral vestibular areflexia syndrome Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 238000005336 cracking Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000006748 scratching Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002393 scratching effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B2/00—Friction-grip releasable fastenings
- F16B2/20—Clips, i.e. with gripping action effected solely by the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening
- F16B2/22—Clips, i.e. with gripping action effected solely by the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening of resilient material, e.g. rubbery material
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B17/00—Vessels parts, details, or accessories, not otherwise provided for
- B63B17/02—Awnings, including rigid weather protection structures, e.g. sunroofs; Tarpaulins; Accessories for awnings or tarpaulins
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B5/00—Joining sheets or plates, e.g. panels, to one another or to strips or bars parallel to them
- F16B5/06—Joining sheets or plates, e.g. panels, to one another or to strips or bars parallel to them by means of clamps or clips
- F16B5/0692—Joining sheets or plates, e.g. panels, to one another or to strips or bars parallel to them by means of clamps or clips joining flexible sheets to other sheets or plates or to strips or bars
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to marine apparatus, and more particularly to apparatus for marine canvas and other flexible shelters.
- Inventions intended to solve this problem have included mesh-like material that is adapted to fit over and cover the metal framework.
- the mesh-like material is intended to prevent direct contact between the plastic windows and the hot metal.
- the mesh-like material must be fitted for, and attached to, each particular framework, and can be quite burdensome to install. All canvases, including the canvas top, must be removed from the framework to install the mesh over the entire framework and its fittings. It would be desirable to provide an alternative apparatus to separate the plastic windows from the hot framework members.
- apparatus having connecting structure adapted to attach to the framework members which support marine canvas and other temporary, flexible marine shelters having plastic portions, and particularly clear plastic windows.
- An insulator is joined to the connecting structure and is adapted to prevent contact between the flexible plastic windows and the supporting framework.
- the supporting framework can reach very high temperatures, however, the insulator remains at a temperature which will not damage the flexible plastic windows when the windows contact the insulator.
- Apparatus according to the invention can be attached at spaced intervals on the supporting framework, so as to prevent the flexible plastic windows from touching the framework along the length thereof.
- the connecting structure can be selected from several suitable constructions.
- the connecting structure should provide detachable yet secure means for attaching to the supporting framework.
- the connecting structure should be made of a non-corrosive material which can withstand prolonged exposure to the marine environment and intense sunlight.
- the connecting structure should be easy to install and low in cost.
- a preferred embodiment for the connecting structure is a clip.
- the insulator can be selected from many different materials.
- the insulator should be of material that does not heat substantially in direct sun, to prevent the insulator from singeing the flexible plastic windows.
- the insulator should not include rough or sharp surfaces, or other surfaces which would damage or chafe the flexible plastic windows.
- the insulator should also be durable and able to withstand wear and abrasion.
- the insulator should be of a non-corrosive material capable of withstanding prolonged exposure to the marine environment.
- a presently preferred material for the insulator is leather.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a marine vessel having a supporting framework for a flexible shelter.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a marine vessel having a flexible shelter.
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of marine apparatus according to the invention, and in a first stage of assembly.
- FIG. 4 is a cross-section taken along lines 4--4 in FIG. 3, and in a second stage of assembly.
- FIG. 5 is a side elevation, partially in cross-section, of marine apparatus according to the invention as installed on a supporting framework.
- FIGS. 1-2 There is shown in FIGS. 1-2 a marine vessel 10 having a supporting framework 30 which supports a temporary shelter, such as a marine canvas roof 32.
- the framework 30 can be formed from a variety of different constructions, but will commonly consist of a plurality of spaced framework members 34 which can be positioned in a variety of spatial orientations to form the supporting framework 30.
- the framework members 34 are connected to the vessel by suitable structure and can be interconnected to form a rigid support for the canvas or other flexible shelter material.
- the supporting framework 30 is typically constructed from a durable material such as aluminum or stainless steel.
- a side railing 35 and other metal hardware may also be present.
- the vessel 10 is shown in FIG. 2 with canvas side panels 40 in place as a temporary shelter.
- the canvas side panels 40 are provided with flexible plastic windows 46. It is alternatively possible that the side panels 40 would be made entirely of clear plastic for improved visibility.
- the side panels 40 can be connected at a top edge thereof to the roof 32 by suitable detachable fastening means such as snaps, zippers or awning track, and can alternatively be attached permanently to the roof 32. Side panels 40 can also be connected to portions of the marine vessel 10 along side and bottom edges of the panels, to secure the panels in place.
- the flexible plastic windows 46 will sometimes contact the supporting framework 30.
- the supporting framework 30 as well as other metal hardware on the vessel 10 can become quite hot when the sun is strong or where ambient temperatures are high.
- the flexible plastic windows 46 are known to singe upon contact with the framework 30 due to the high temperatures of the framework members 34.
- the apparatus 50 preferably includes connecting structure 51 and an insulator 54.
- the apparatus 50 is adapted to space the flexible plastic windows 46 from the supporting framework 30.
- the insulator 54 is constructed of a material which remains at a temperature which will not damage the flexible plastic windows 46, even in direct sunlight.
- the flexible plastic windows 46 contact the insulator 54 and do not touch the hot supporting framework 30.
- the connecting structure 51 can be formed from any of several suitable constructions that are adapted to engage the supporting framework 30, and preferably the connecting structure is a clip.
- the insulator 54 can be attached directly to the connecting structure 51 by suitable fastening means, including bonding with adhesives. Alternatively, it is possible to integrally form the connecting structure 51 and insulator 54, as by injection molding of plastic compounds.
- the clip can be formed from several suitable constructions, preferably including attachment flanges 57 and 58 and a support portion 55 spanning between ends of the attachment flanges 57 and 58.
- the attachment flanges 57 and 58 are adapted to resiliently engage the framework members 34, and can be of any suitable shape depending in part on the shape of the framework members 34 that must be engaged.
- the attachment flanges 57 and 58 can include cylindrical, curved portions 59, 60, respectively, where cylindrical framework members must be engaged. Ends 61, 62 of the attachment flanges 57 and 58 can be flared outward to facilitate the attachment of the apparatus 50 to the framework members 34.
- a plastic material can be used to coat at least inside surfaces of the attachment flanges 57 and 58 to further prevent scratching of the framework members when the clip is installed.
- the insulator 54 can be made of several suitable materials.
- the material should remain near ambient temperatures in intense sunlight.
- the material should be durable and able to withstand prolonged exposure to the marine environment and intense sunlight.
- the material should not have a rough texture which could possibly cut or scratch the flexible plastic windows 46.
- a presently preferred material for the insulator is leather. Plastics and rubber compounds are also possible materials for the insulator 54.
- the insulator 54 can be attached to the support portion 55 by any suitable means, including adhesives.
- the insulator 54 is provided as an elongated strip of material.
- a male stud member 63 is provided at one end of the insulator 54 and secures the end to the support portion 55 by suitable fastening means such as the rivet portion 64 of the male stud member 63.
- a female socket member 65 is provided at an end of the insulator 54 opposite to the male stud member 63.
- a button 66 having a stem 68 is secured to the female socket member 65 through the insulator material by passing the stem 68 through an aperture in the button 66, and flaring the end of the stem 68 to secure the female socket member 65 to the insulator 54.
- the elongated strip comprising the insulator 54 is then wrapped around the support portion 55 and the female socket member 65 is connected to the male stud member 63.
- the button 66 should be spaced from the framework member 34 when the apparatus 5 is attached to avoid vibration noises. Other attachment structure for the male stud and female socket is possible.
- the apparatus 50 is shown as attached to a framework member 34.
- the apparatus 50 should be adapted to space the window 46 from the framework member 34 a sufficient distance to insure against contact, preferably between about one-half and one inch.
- the flexible plastic window 46 contacts the insulator 54 and does not contact the hot framework member 34.
- the apparatus 50 can be readily detached from the framework member 34 due to the resilient engagement thereof, and moved to other vessels, or other parts of the vessel 10, as may be necessary.
- the invention is capable of taking several alternative embodiments without departing from the spirit or essential attributes thereof. Particularly, it is possible to alternatively construct the connecting structure by which the insulator 54 is engaged to the framework members 34. Clamps, clasps, buckles and the like may all be utilized as an alternative to the clip described herein for engaging the framework members 34.
- the clip where utilized, can be formed in several alternative configurations to adapt to the particular framework members 34 that must be engaged.
- the attachment structure may be made from several alternative materials, including metals and plastic. Where plastic or another material having insulating properties is utilized, it is possible to form the connecting structure integrally with the insulator by suitable molding or other manufacturing processes. It is also possible to utilize the invention wherever flexible plastic windows contact a hot supporting framework, as may be the case in recreational vehicles, tents, and the like. Reference should accordingly be had to the following claims, rather than to the foregoing specification, as indicating the scope of the invention.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
- Tents Or Canopies (AREA)
Abstract
Description
Claims (11)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US07/500,523 US5088438A (en) | 1990-03-28 | 1990-03-28 | Apparatus for flexible marine windows |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US07/500,523 US5088438A (en) | 1990-03-28 | 1990-03-28 | Apparatus for flexible marine windows |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US5088438A true US5088438A (en) | 1992-02-18 |
Family
ID=23989794
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US07/500,523 Expired - Fee Related US5088438A (en) | 1990-03-28 | 1990-03-28 | Apparatus for flexible marine windows |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US5088438A (en) |
Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6286449B1 (en) * | 1999-08-13 | 2001-09-11 | Jeffery J. Giffin | Camper back boat assembly |
US6357379B1 (en) | 2001-05-01 | 2002-03-19 | Charles Murphy, Jr. | Retractable/deployable enclosure assembly for a watercraft vehicle |
US6443090B1 (en) | 1999-08-13 | 2002-09-03 | Jeffery J. Giffin | Camper boat assembly |
US6557480B1 (en) | 2000-09-20 | 2003-05-06 | Halter Marine, Inc. | Bonded windows |
US6725871B1 (en) | 2001-06-06 | 2004-04-27 | Nelson A. Taylor Co., Inc. | Portable cover unit |
US20080141926A1 (en) * | 2005-01-21 | 2008-06-19 | Tufte Brian N | Cover system for a boat |
EP1985534A1 (en) * | 2007-04-28 | 2008-10-29 | Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft | Motor boat |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4671203A (en) * | 1986-02-10 | 1987-06-09 | Sanburg Larry E | Boat supported duck blind |
US4683901A (en) * | 1986-01-06 | 1987-08-04 | Mitchell Robert W | Cover for floating boat dock |
US4694774A (en) * | 1985-03-29 | 1987-09-22 | Marie E. Keithley | Shape adaptable protective cushion device and method of making and using same |
US4940009A (en) * | 1985-03-29 | 1990-07-10 | Keithley Jr Howard W | Shape adaptable protective cushion device and method of making and using same |
-
1990
- 1990-03-28 US US07/500,523 patent/US5088438A/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4694774A (en) * | 1985-03-29 | 1987-09-22 | Marie E. Keithley | Shape adaptable protective cushion device and method of making and using same |
US4940009A (en) * | 1985-03-29 | 1990-07-10 | Keithley Jr Howard W | Shape adaptable protective cushion device and method of making and using same |
US4683901A (en) * | 1986-01-06 | 1987-08-04 | Mitchell Robert W | Cover for floating boat dock |
US4671203A (en) * | 1986-02-10 | 1987-06-09 | Sanburg Larry E | Boat supported duck blind |
Cited By (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6286449B1 (en) * | 1999-08-13 | 2001-09-11 | Jeffery J. Giffin | Camper back boat assembly |
US6443090B1 (en) | 1999-08-13 | 2002-09-03 | Jeffery J. Giffin | Camper boat assembly |
US6557480B1 (en) | 2000-09-20 | 2003-05-06 | Halter Marine, Inc. | Bonded windows |
US6357379B1 (en) | 2001-05-01 | 2002-03-19 | Charles Murphy, Jr. | Retractable/deployable enclosure assembly for a watercraft vehicle |
US6725871B1 (en) | 2001-06-06 | 2004-04-27 | Nelson A. Taylor Co., Inc. | Portable cover unit |
US20080141926A1 (en) * | 2005-01-21 | 2008-06-19 | Tufte Brian N | Cover system for a boat |
US7784420B2 (en) | 2005-01-21 | 2010-08-31 | Tufte Brian N | Cover system for a boat |
EP1985534A1 (en) * | 2007-04-28 | 2008-10-29 | Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft | Motor boat |
US20080264324A1 (en) * | 2007-04-28 | 2008-10-30 | Dr. Ing. H.C. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft | Motor Boat |
US7810443B2 (en) | 2007-04-28 | 2010-10-12 | Dr. Ing. H.C. F. Porsche Ag | Motorboat having a cabin windscreen |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: GLASS PARTNERS, INC., 40 EAST 15TH STREET, RIVIERA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST.;ASSIGNORS:RICHARDSON, JAY JR.;DECKER, DOLORES;REEL/FRAME:005544/0179 Effective date: 19901212 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: GLASS PARTNERS, INC., FLORIDA Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:DECKER, LAURIE A.;REEL/FRAME:005778/0588 Effective date: 19910425 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: DECKER, DOLORES (LAURIE) A., FLORIDA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST.;ASSIGNOR:GLASS PARTNERS, INC., A FL CORP.;REEL/FRAME:006146/0977 Effective date: 19920611 |
|
REMI | Maintenance fee reminder mailed | ||
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
SULP | Surcharge for late payment | ||
REMI | Maintenance fee reminder mailed | ||
LAPS | Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees | ||
FP | Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee |
Effective date: 20000218 |
|
STCH | Information on status: patent discontinuation |
Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362 |